Ave Maria University Spring 2024 Magazine

03 President’s Letter 04 AMU News

08 Phi Kappi Phi Comes to AMU 23 Inspired by Faith, Enlivened by Community 24 Surprised by Joy

28 AMU Athletics 2023-2024

30 David vs. Goliath

32 Alumni Class Notes

34 AMU’s Three Newest Households

10 WISDOM FOR ALL

The faculty reveal the heart of a university. At Ave Maria University, our professors not only excel in their academic field, but eagerly embrace their Catholic faith. This article explores the free short courses that take our faculty and staff beyond the classroom and directly to you to help you pursue wisdom.

18 A LIFE WELL LIVED

“Cindy wanted her life to mean something.” Honoring the selfless legacy of Cindy Baumeister, this article details the life of a woman with courageous faith, told through the eyes of her husband.

20 THAR BE DRAGONS!

Ignatius Book Fairs—a collaboration between Ave Maria University and Ignatius Press—provides parents and educators with a sound alternative to existing book fairs. Featuring both faith-based and non-religious books, this article debuts stories that will not only stimulate imaginations but nourish hearts.

26

THE CLASSROOM OF SILENCE

At most universities, the most important classroom might be a lab or a lecture hall. At Ave Maria University, it’s the Perpetual Adoration Chapel. This article narrates the Eucharistic culture of AMU, featuring its newest expression found in our devoted Mary’s Marines.

SPRING 2024

VOLUME 14, ISSUE 1

PRESIDENT Mark Middendorf

MANAGING EDITORS

Susan Gallagher

Shelby Mayer ('20)

Dennis McCarthy

Neil Watson

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Balbina O’Brien

CONTRIBUTORS

Sarah Chichester

Shelby Mayer

Joseph Patterson

Neil Watson

PHOTOGRAPHY

Shelby Mayer

Ave Maria University publishes this magazine for its alumni, parents, and friends. Any address changes should be sent to the Office of Advancement, Ave Maria University, 5050 Ave Maria Blvd., Ave Maria, FL, 34142.

President Mark and First Lady Christine Middendorf

Letter from PRESIDENT MARK J. MIDDENDORF

Dear Friends,

What a joy and blessing it is for all of us to be servants of the mission of Ave Maria University (AMU). I know I feel truly blessed to be the president of such a faithful Catholic university that is renewing the spiritual landscape of our country and our world.

We are changing things for the better by changing lives, one student at a time. Every student is unique, every student an individual. And yet, every student is part of something bigger than themselves. This is true of his or her place in the Church, in the world, in their local community, and, last but not least, in their place in our community at AMU.

As a community, we continue to grow not only in the number of blessings we receive but in the number of students who have enrolled. We had record enrollment this spring—both undergraduate and graduate—and had the highest rate of student retention ever, not merely in terms of numbers but in terms of percentage. It seems that more students than ever are finding what we have to offer to be very attractive—enrolling in larger numbers and liking what they experience once they are here!

Apart from what we have done well for years, we have also experienced great success with several new programs and initiatives. The Thomas S. Monaghan Founder’s Scholarship Program is forming students into the Catholic leaders of tomorrow. This year, all the freshmen enrolled in this scholarship program—as well as our Aquinas and Augustine Scholars—have been reading the Bible in a Year and discussing it with faculty and staff.

Hundreds of our students, staff, and faculty have enrolled in Mary’s Marines, committing to between 15 minutes and an hour in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament every day. This means that every day, our students are kneeling in front of Our Lord in one of the chapels, in our dorms on campus, or in the parish church. In this way, we can truly say that AMU has become a powerhouse of prayer. Each Mary’s Marine has been spiritually adopted by a nun or sister who is praying specifically for that student during their four years at AMU.

I am especially pleased with, and greatly encouraged by, our reinvigorated faith-based household initiative, which offers a holy alternative to the sororities and fraternities at other universities. These “holy households” offer fellowship and friendship rooted in faithful communion, enabling students to deepen

their relationships with each other through prayer, service, and faith-enriching events. There are currently 11 women’s households on campus and nine men’s households. Each household seeks to come together in prayer and devotionals, share meals, attend Mass, and participate in various social and community activities. Each has its own unique set of charisms that household members follow, seeking to grow in specific virtues in emulation of the household’s adopted patron saints.

For example, Stella Maris (“Star of the Sea”) is a women’s household seeking to grow in the virtues of moderation, purity, and dignity, in emulation of St. Catherine of Siena, St. Thomas Aquinas, and St. Martin de Porres. Immaculata Vincet (“Immaculate Victory”) is a men’s household whose members seek to grow in brotherhood, leadership, and courage, inspired by their patrons: Immaculate Mary and St. Maximilian Kolbe.

The bonds formed in these households reflect the love to be found in the tightest and holiest of Catholic families, leading students to finding and forging lifelong friendships with their household brothers or sisters.

These wonderful programs and initiatives show that Ave Maria University is in better shape than ever. Building on past experience, we are creating a Catholic university truly unique in its strengths, both academically and spiritually. This is well represented in the number of prospective students hoping to come here. We have a record number of deposits from prospective students, with a record average high school GPA of 3.74 and an average ACT of 26+. What a blessing!

In the grace-filled light of all the good things happening at Ave Maria University, I can truly say that I feel a sense of unworthiness to be at the helm of such a noble endeavor. May Our Lord continue to bless us and Our Lady continue to pray for us as we seek to build His Kingdom through the building of her University.

God bless you,

President

AMU NEWS

Opening the Quonset Hut Locker Facility

September 23, 2023 | Honoring Founder Tom Monaghan’s service to our country in the United States Marine Corps, the Quonset Hut Locker Facility was officially opened before the first home football game of 2023. AMU was honored to have Monaghan present for the ribbon cutting, along with members of our armed services, whose sacrifice the University honors through this facility.

Archbishop Salvatore J. Cordileone Delivers Convocation

Address at Ave Maria University

August 25, 2023 | AMU was honored to have the Archbishop of San Francisco, the Most Reverend Salvatore J. Cordileone, deliver the 2023 Convocation Address. In his lecture, titled “The Three Pillars of Catholic Education,” Archbishop Cordileone discussed the significance of Catholic higher education as a modern solution to guide an age that has lost its way. His talk resonated deeply with all those present, reaffirming the University’s dedication to teaching faith and reason.

Full Article: avemaria.edu/news/cordileone-convocation

AMU Welcomes Two Mosaics Donated by 2022 and 2023 Graduates

October 14, 2023 | During Homecoming Weekend, two mosaics for the St. Mother Teresa and St. John Paul II dormitories were unveiled on campus. The mosaics were donated by the classes of 2022 and 2023, and designed in Naples based on a sketch by alumna Alexis Stypa ('16).

Four Gyrene Alumni Honored at 3rd Annual Hall of Fame Dinner

October 14, 2023 | At the annual Hall of Fame Dinner, Marinna Shadley ('17), John Preyer ('19), and Conor Sullivan ('16) were honored as inductees for their achievements in AMU softball, football, and baseball, respectively. Fr. Alexander Pince ('12) was also honored with the John Paul II Distinguished Alumni Award, which recognizes an AMU athletic alumnus who has achieved notable distinction off the field of competition following graduation.

The Catholic Theology Show Celebrates One Year

October 22, 2023 | Since its launch in October 2022, The Catholic Theology Show—hosted by Dr. Michael Dauphinais —has seen tremendous success as AMU’s first faculty podcast. In its first year, the show published 57 episodes, obtained 31,100 listeners in 86 countries, and built a brand-new, on-campus studio. Featured speakers on the show include Dr. Scott Hahn, Dr. Michael Waldstein, and Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone. Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon.

New and Improved Golisano Field House Grand Opening

February 10, 2024 | After suffering irreparable damage from Hurricane Irma in 2017, the Golisano Field House was rebuilt in its original location with welcomed improvements, such as a second indoor court. Tom Golisano attended the ribbon cutting with President Mark Middendorf and Founder Tom Monaghan to dedicate the new building, which had been closed since 2019. The new field house is the home court for AMU basketball and volleyball teams and will host commencement for the Class of 2024 this May.

Old Studio

New Studio

Two New Minors Introduced at AMU

Family Rosary Across America

Visits Ave Maria

February 28, 2024 | Relevant Radio returned to Ave Maria to broadcast “Family Rosary Across America LIVE.” Hosted by Fr. Rocky with special co-host Bishop Dewane, the event had great attendance and featured several AMU faculty, staff, benefactors, and students who offered intentions throughout the Rosary. This was the third year Relevant Radio hosted the event from the Ave Maria Catholic Church.

February 28, 2024 | The fall 2024 semester will welcome two new minors: agriculture and Catholic environmental stewardship (ACES) and engineering. ACES will form future agricultural and environmental leaders, while engineering will lead students into the field of automation and robotics. The addition of these two programs will bring AMU’s count to 33 minors.

Learn more: avemaria.edu/news/aces | avemaria.edu/news/engineering

Fr. Joseph Becomes New University Chaplain

March 1, 2024 | Fr. Joseph Lugalambi—with the approval of his bishop and AMU’s bishop, the Most Reverend Frank J. Dewane—will become the director of Campus Ministry, effective April 15, 2024. The change in leadership came after Fr. Rick Martignetti, O.F.M., was reassigned by his Franciscan provincial to Marian University in Indiana. AMU is immensely grateful for Fr. Rick’s tireless commitment, compassionate leadership, and spiritual impact on campus. The University is excited about Fr. Joseph’s wealth of experience, deep spiritual insight, and genuine passion for serving the community.

13th Annual Scholarship Dinner

February 29, 2024 | AMU’s 13th annual Scholarship Dinner celebrated St. Teresa of Calcutta’s call to “do something beautiful for God.” During cocktail hour, students presented their research projects in theology, biochemistry, nursing, politics, history, and economics, while music students played in a jazz ensemble. Highlights from the night included keynotes from Kristian Marks ('24), Deacon Kevin Durand ('15), and Dr. Michael Dauphinais, speaking about their experiences with AMU. The night also featured entertainment from AMU’s chamber and concert choir and student performers.

The event raised a record amount for scholarships and student services. AMU is grateful to Naples-based global medical device manufacturer, Arthrex, for hosting the event for the third consecutive year.

Full article: avemaria.edu/news/2024-scholarship-dinner

Fr. Mike Schmitz to Address the Class of 2024

May 4, 2024 | AMU is thrilled to announce that Fr. Mike Schmitz, host of The Bible in a Year, will be the keynote speaker at the commencement of the Class of 2024. The event will be live-streamed on AMU’s website and available on the AMU YouTube channel.

Phi Kappa Phi Comes to AMU

As the sun streams through the coconut palms on the campus of Ave Maria University, it may be hard to call to mind the 1890’s forest of central Maine. Yet, that was exactly the case last October when the University had the privilege of becoming the 358th chapter of Phi Kappa Phi.

Phi Kappa Phi—which was founded at the University of Maine in 1897—is the nation’s oldest and most selective multidisciplinary collegiate honor society. Its motto, “Philosophía Krateítõ Phõtôn” (“Let the love of learning rule humanity”), is brought to life through its mission: “to recognize and promote academic excellence in all fields of higher education and to engage the community of scholars in service to others.”

This mission aligns with our University mission in many ways, but two are especially worth highlighting. First, its emphasis on interdisciplinary scholarship reflects our own academic community, where 35 majors and numerous minors constantly cross paths and are rooted in a common core liberal arts curriculum. With membership earned—not granted—solely through a GPA requirement, all disciplines are invited into Phi Kappa Phi to share their knowledge and wisdom with each other.

Secondly, through its emphasis on service to others, at the national level, Phi Kappa Phi awards over $1.3 million to members each year—awards AMU chapter members can now qualify for. By funding scholarships, grants, and fellowships, Phi Kappa Phi hopes to “stimulate others to strive for excellence” as role models in their field, improving the human experience. This aligns closely with our academic community’s objective to seek knowledge not for its own sake, but rather in service to mankind and his Creator.

Since forming in October, Ave Maria’s Phi Kappa Phi chapter has been very active. Now boasting over 22 members, the chapter has hosted several lectures and events on campus. This included a special lecture this past February by Dr. Gilbert Lavoie, whose original, insightful work on the Shroud of Turin serves as the

model for a sculpture now housed in the Ark Chapel of the Bob Thomas Student Union Building. We were honored to host the executive director and CEO of Phi Kappa Phi, Dr. Bradley Newcomer, this year when we inducted new members in the spring.

To learn more about Phi Kappa Phi at Ave Maria University, please contact Dr. Agnes Berki, president (agnes.berki@avemaria.edu), or Mr. John Spadaccini, public relations officer (john.spadaccini@ avemaria.edu).

—Neil Watson Director of Marketing neil.watson@avemaria.edu

Wisdom for All FREE AMU SHORT COURSES ENRICH EVERYDAY LIFE

Ave Maria University has developed online courses— designed to stream on the web or app—with you and others like you in mind, people who want to be lifelong learners but are not able to take formal classes.

The Pursuit of Wisdom platform allows you to learn about Fulton Sheen while you walk the dog, delve into the heart of motherhood while you pick up the kids, and turn any routine into a moment to learn, grow, and develop wisdom—the view of reality that sees how knowledge and learning fit within the ordered plan of God. In short: how it all fits together.

Access world-class professors, watch or listen at your own pace, and discover interesting and relevant topics for free

And, since the faculty reveal the heart of any university, Ave Maria University recruits professors who excel in their disciplines while enthusiastically embracing their Catholic faith.

Get to know these men and women—lifelong learners themselves—whose academic rigor and Catholic fidelity inspire their students and whose joyful scholarship inspires Pursuit of Wisdom viewers.

These motivational, free, short courses aim to uplift our alumni, benefactors, and anyone else who aspires to a life that is more inspired, joyful, and meaningful.

—Mark Middendorf, AMU President

Topics include motherhood, Catholic bioethics (including end-of-life questions), Catholicism in the US, environmental stewardship, computer programing, the US Constitution, and more!

Wisdom for Life CATHOLIC BIOETHICS AND

MOTHERHOOD

Dr. DiAnn Ecret

Catholic Bioethics: Current Issues

Dr. DiAnn Ecret imparts a faithfully Catholic framework for making moral decisions in an increasingly secular environment.

Be informed about the euphemisms and approaches used in secular healthcare to dismantle the Catholic response to disability and bioethical issues such as prenatal diagnosis and end-of-life care.

Meet Dr. Ecret

Dr. DiAnn Ecret teaches undergraduate nursing at Ave Maria University and is a part-time nurse ethicist at the National Catholic Bioethics Center. Dr. Ecret holds graduate degrees in nursing, theology, and healthcare ethics from Wilmington University, Villanova University, and Duquesne University. She has been married to her husband, Michael, for 35 years, and they are blessed with four children and four beautiful grandchildren.

People want to shame us and say we’re not being compassionate when we are actually coming from a deep respect for the sanctity of life.

—Dr. DiAnn Ecret

Catholic Bioethics: Current Issues

Dr. Janice Chik Breidenbach

The Philosophy of Motherhood

Enter a profound exploration of motherhood with Dr. Janice Chik Breidenbach and gain unique insights into human nature and existence.

Discover the evolving societal perceptions of motherhood and unravel its mysteries, recognizing the beauty and significance of ordinary moments and how motherhood leads us to God.

Meet Dr. Breidenbach

Aristotle once said we need to love others in order to be happy. We need to recover this ancient truth: after celibacy for the Kingdom of God, parenthood offers the ideal opportunity to spend yourself for the lives of others, finding that God returns your life to you a thousandfold.

—Dr. Janice Chik Breidenbach

Dr. Janice Chik Breidenbach is an associate professor of philosophy at Ave Maria University with research affiliations at Oxford and UPenn. She holds degrees in philosophy, public policy, and music performance. Outside of work, Dr. Breidenbach enjoys homemaking, wine tasting, and playing music for her son, Paul Thomas.

The Philosophy of Motherhood

Wisdom in the Sciences TECHNOLOGY AND NATURE

Dr. Saverio Perugini

An Introduction to Computer Science

Dr. Saverio Perugini not only defines what computer science is; he also explores questions such as: Why study computing? What does the study of computing entail? Is computing an art, science, or engineering?

Deepen your understanding of topics such as artificial intelligence and the subareas of computer science, and receive a well-informed perspective on computer science as a whole.

Meet Dr. Perugini

Dr. Saverio Perugini is a mathematics and computer science professor at Ave Maria University. With a Ph.D. in computer science from Virginia Tech, he previously held a tenured professor position at the University of Dayton for 18 years. He is a senior member of the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) and the IEEE Computer Society.

I am passionate about teaching computer science from a liberal arts perspective and demonstrating the creativity and unity of beauty and utility within the discipline.

—Dr. Saverio Perugini

An Introduction to Computer Science

Dr. Samuel Shephard Stewarding the Environment

Dr. Samuel Shephard helps you embrace your role as a responsible steward, nurturing a peaceful relationship between humanity and the earth. Appreciate the beauty and interconnectedness of the natural world, while learning to safeguard and cherish God’s creation.

Meet Dr. Shephard

God has poured His wisdom, love, and imagination into His first book —the created order. I love teaching students the scientific theory and practice that helps them to "read" and understand nature more deeply.

—Dr. Samuel Shephard

Dr. Samuel Shephard is a biology professor at Ave Maria University. He pursued graduate studies in fisheries science and made significant contributions to the scientific community through his publications. Outside of academia, he is happily married with seven children, embracing the joys of family life.

Stewarding the Environment

Wisdom of the Sacraments and Fulton Sheen

Dr.

Roger Nutt

An Introduction to Sacramental Theology

Dr. Roger Nutt unveils the significance of the seven sacraments and the integral role they play in the Catholic faith journey.

Discover how the sacraments stand as a profound source of truth and grace, enriching our spiritual lives.

Meet Dr. Nutt

Dr. Roger Nutt is the provost and a professor of theology at Ave Maria University. He co-directs the Aquinas Center for Theological Renewal and is a member of the Academy of Catholic Theology. He has written three books, translated works, and has been published in esteemed journals. Additionally, Dr. Nutt serves as a co-editor for multiple volumes, contributing to subjects such as Christian responses to death, Aquinas and Christology, Aquinas and the Greek Fathers, and Thomism and predestination.

What I really love about this material is it reminds us by means of the seven sacraments that Jesus remains present to us, especially in the Eucharist.

—Dr. Roger Nutt

Venerable Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen was a tremendous spiritual guide and a serious thinker on a wide array of topics. I find that people overlook his political and social thought. I hope this course demonstrates how his wisdom remains as true today as it did almost a century ago.

—Dr. James Patterson

An Introduction to Sacramental Theology

Dr. James Patterson

The Wisdom of Fulton Sheen

Dr. James Patterson illuminates the captivating life and teachings of Venerable Fulton J. Sheen, a trailblazer in Catholic media.

Understand Sheen’s dynamic perspective and gain refreshing insights into his impact on faith, society, and personal growth.

Meet Dr. Patterson

Dr. James Patterson is an associate professor and chair of the politics department at Ave Maria University, with degrees from the University of Houston and the University of Virginia. He is also a fellow at the Center for Religion, Culture, and Democracy and the Institute of Human Ecology at Catholic University of America. He resides in Ave Maria, Florida, with his wife and four children.

The Wisdom of Fulton Sheen

Wisdom Through Great Men in Literature TOLKIEN AND LEWIS

Joseph Pearce

The Genius of J. R. R. Tolkien

Embark on an adventure into the world of J. R. R. Tolkien with Professor Joseph Pearce. Discover the rich tapestry of Tolkien’s life and theology and the hidden treasures in the timeless works, The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit

Meet Prof. Pearce

Prof. Joseph Pearce is a visiting professor of literature at Ave Maria University, a renowned author with many internationally acclaimed bestsellers, and host of two 13-part television series covering Shakespeare on EWTN. Pearce is a frequent participant and lecturer at various literary events in the United States and around the world. He is also the editor of the St. Austin Review and series editor of the Ignatius Critical Editions.

New Course Coming Soon!

The Genius of G. K. Chesterton

“Under grace, G. K. Chesterton was the most powerful influence on my own path to Christian conversion. It’s been a joy and an honor to share Chesterton’s wisdom with others in this course.”

Christian apologists such as C. S. Lewis remind us that, when we have questions about the Christian faith, the tradition has even better answers.

—Dr. Michael Dauphinais

Dr. Michael Dauphinais

The Wisdom of C. S. Lewis

Dr. Michael Dauphinais reveals how C. S. Lewis viewed the world with imagination and truth, and how after his conversion, Lewis studied the great Fathers of the Church, interpreting their theologies and ideas and seeking to make sense of it all.

Meet Dr. Dauphinais

Dr. Michael A. Dauphinais, Fr. Matthew Lamb professor of Catholic theology, serves as the codirector of the Aquinas Center for Theological Renewal at Ave Maria University. With degrees from Duke University and the University of Notre Dame, he has written and edited numerous scholarly articles and books on Thomas Aquinas, the Bible, and Catholic theology. Apart from teaching, he is an internationally known speaker and host of The Catholic Theology Show podcast. Married to his wife, Nancy, for nearly 30 years, he is a grateful revert to the Catholic Church.

—Joseph Pearce

The Wisdom of C. S. Lewis

The Genius of J. R. R. Tolkien

Wisdom in the Constitution and America’s Catholic Legacy

Dr. Seana Sugrue

The Foundations of America: US Constitution

Dr. Seana Sugrue presents a history replete with key figures, pivotal events, and vital documents surrounding the founding of America and the creation of the US Constitution.

Enrich your understanding of these historic achievements while discovering how they remain relevant and meaningful in the context of modernday America.

Meet Dr. Sugrue

Dr. Seana Sugrue, Ambassador Michael Novak chair of politics at Ave Maria University, previously served as the associate director of the James Madison Program at Princeton University. Dr. Sugrue teaches constitutional law and civil liberties, specializing in separation of powers, religious liberty, marriage, civil society, and civil disobedience. She holds degrees from the University of Ottawa and McGill University and is also a proud mother of three talented young women.

I love teaching the Foundations of America because most students lack a solid understanding of civics. I share the excitement of discovery with students as their preconceptions about the United States are dispelled. They come to better understand and love their country despite its imperfections. The history of America is their history—it is part of them.

—Dr. Seana Sugrue

The Foundations of America

New Course Coming Soon!

Pro-Life: Rights, Natural Law, and Catholic Thought

“I hope viewers will better understand the Catholic perspective of the human person after watching my upcoming series. I hope they will understand why all persons possess immeasurable dignity.”

—Dr. Seana Sugrue

Wisdom in the Constitution and America’s Catholic Legacy Continued ...

Dr. Michael Breidenbach

The Rise of American Politics

Uncover the vital role Catholics played in founding the United States and explore their dual loyalty to America and the Holy See.

Meet Dr. Breidenbach

Dr. Michael Breidenbach is an associate professor of history at Ave Maria University, specializing in American politics, religion, and law. He is a fellow of the Royal Historical Society and has held research positions at institutions including Princeton and Oxford. He is published in esteemed journals and has made appearances on national media. Dr. Breidenbach earned his Ph.D. from King’s College, Cambridge, and resides in Southwest Florida with his family.

Textbooks rarely highlight the importance of Catholics in American history. It’s a joy to tell the fascinating story of how Catholics became American.

—Dr. Michael Breidenbach

The Rise of American Politics

No matter where we go or how busy our lives are, we can all grow in wisdom. Minute by minute, day by day, we can learn how particular facets of life and society fit into God’s plan.

Walk with the Ave Maria University professors featured in the Pursuit of Wisdom courses as they bring together relevant and wide-ranging topics, all of which effect each of us in some way. And please share with your family and friends, for this wisdom is meant to be shared. It is, after all, wisdom for all

—Sarah Chichester Institutional Writer and Researcher sarah.chichester@avemaria.edu

From the minds behind your favorite Pursuit of Wisdom courses, the learning continues with

Explore more titles and place orders at hfsbooks.com/publishers/sapientia

A Life Well Lived A SELFLESS LEGACY PAVED BY ONE WOMAN’S COURAGEOUS FAITH

When Jeff Baumeister met his wife in the mid1980s, he could have never imagined the road God would lead them on. Jeff wasn’t interested in volunteer work, wasn’t Catholic, and certainly would not have considered supporting a school like Ave Maria University (AMU). So how did Jeff find himself not only becoming a lector at his local parish but establishing two scholarships at AMU? He would credit two things: the persistent grace of God and the faithful example of his wife, Cindy.

Jeff and Cindy got married in the late 1990s and moved to Sacramento, California. Not long after, Cindy discovered a mass in her stomach and was diagnosed with stage 4 ovarian cancer. Before the six-hour surgery with the head of the gynecology department, something unexpected happened: the doctor took their hands, bowed his head, and prayed with them.

The surgery was a success, and although the recovery was difficult, Cindy and Jeff believed the worst was behind them. For the next 10 years, Cindy went through several rounds of chemotherapy, treatments, and surgeries, including four clinical trials with the University of California, Davis. Throughout the process, Cindy was adamant something good would come of all her suffering and remained steadfast in God’s will for her life. She experienced minor remissions—certain ailments would return—but viewed it as a chronic condition. She just wanted to manage the pain and live a normal life.

In 2018, Jeff and Cindy moved to Venice, Florida. In 2020, Cindy went in for a sigmoidoscopy, which revealed a mass on her colon. They went to Sarasota for another surgery, but it didn’t yield the same results as the previous operation. Cindy passed away into the hands of Our Lord on August 8, 2021—the Feast of St. Dominic.

During her life, Cindy was deeply dedicated to volunteer work. Before leaving California in 2018, Cindy and Jeff established the Jeffrey and Cynthia

Baumeister Foundation with the Gulf Coast Community Foundation. Through this they supported Second Chance Cocker Rescue in California, helping them build a sanctuary for unadoptable cocker spaniels, providing half the operating budget, and supporting two dozen dogs a year.

During their marriage, Jeff started going to Mass with Cindy in 2008 to support her faith. He was Protestant, but Cindy was a cradle Catholic and very active in their local parish. After she died, Jeff went to visit his pastor, Fr. Jay Jancarz, to seek counsel about why this had happened, and what his life would look like going forward. While talking, Father brought up RCIA. The only problem was it was October and classes had already begun. “If you’re serious about this,” Father explained, “I can bend the rules and get you in for this class.” Jeff took his offer and was received into the Church at Easter in 2022, just eight months after Cindy’s passing.

The following year, Jeff volunteered to be an RCIA sponsor for a candidate who was confirmed at Easter in 2023. He felt a calling to give to the Church even more, so he became a lector for his local parish in Venice, Our Lady of Lourdes. In addition, Jeff started volunteering at the Florida Cancer Center in Venice Island as a patient support representative, where Cindy was treated.

Bringing two souls into the Catholic Church would have been more than enough to honor the gift of Cindy’s life, but that wasn’t the end of her legacy. When Cindy was in hospice during her last days, Jeff talked to her about the future—what she wanted him to do after her passing. Cindy mentioned a Catholic university in Florida that was “really important to her,” but the funny thing was, Jeff had never heard of the school. He reached out to AMU after her passing and established two scholarships: one in Cindy’s name and one in Fr. Jay’s.

To this day, Jeff has no idea how Cindy came across Ave Maria University. But through her steadfast faith, courage, and selflessness—even at the end of her life— Cindy has helped three students find a home at AMU. In the three years since her passing, these students have made lifelong friendships, received an excellent liberal arts education, and grown closer to Our Lord through the sacraments. These three students could not have attended AMU without these scholarships but will graduate from Ave Maria, all because one woman gave everything she had in service to the Church, out of love for her Savior.

Jeff hopes to continue Cindy’s legacy through his involvement with AMU and all the other lives she touched while on Earth. “The old me would have never thought to become Catholic, wouldn’t volunteer, wouldn’t be a lector ... She changed my life and did her best to change other people’s, too,” Jeff reflected.

“Even when passing, she was worried about everyone else. Her clinical trials were just as much about helping other people as they were about helping herself. She was the strongest person you could imagine, and through it all, she had great faith and courage.”

Cindy wanted her life to mean something, which carried over to Jeff, who took her example and provided an education for three bright, young Catholics. From the souls that will be impacted by these three students, to the foundations she supported, to the RCIA candidate who is celebrating his first year in the Church—Cindy’s life was not only a gift to Jeff; it is a gift to us all.

If you’d like to support the Jeffrey and Cynthia Baumeister Foundation fund through the Gulf Coast Community Foundation, checks should be made payable to Gulf Coast Community Foundation and sent to 601 Tamiami Trail South, Venice, FL 34285.

—Shelby Mayer ('20) Marketing Manager shelby.mayer@avemaria.edu

Thar Be Dragons! NEW

AMU PARTNERSHIP HITS THE BOOKS

And the Princess lived happily ever after, rejecting Prince Charming and the trappings of the patriarchy, casting aside her crown of entitlement, and getting a tattoo on her right bicep that read in all caps: SHE BOSS. ME BOSS. Wait— what?

If this doesn’t sound like the fairytales of your childhood or like a story you’d want your children or grandchildren to read, there’s good news. And bad news. The bad— truly awful—news is that this simple paragraph pales in comparison to some of the content that Scholastic (the book fair giant with 95% market share in grade schools) is directing to our children. Scholastic is aggressively pushing LGBTQ+ literature to children of all ages, starting with materials geared toward kindergarteners.

Can you imagine your five-year-old son or grandson looking for stories at his school book fair and having him encounter books such as My Moms Love Me, Witch Boy, and Melissa, which was penned by a popular, self-identified genderqueer author and contains sexually explicit language?

We know that raising children includes forming their minds and properly feeding their sponge-like imaginations. Reading is a key area of that formation.

Sadly, until now, there hasn’t been a scalable alternative to the content, format, or convenience that Scholastic offers parents, or the opportunity to provide parents and schools with vetted materials.

Now for the good news: Ave Maria University has partnered with well-known Catholic book publisher Ignatius Press to establish Ignatius Book Fairs, offering a curated selection of both Catholic and nonreligious books—all of which have been fully vetted to ensure that the content is safe for children and will nourish their imaginations and their hearts.

“Our mission,” Ave Maria University President Mark Middendorf said, “is to be a fountainhead of renewal for the Church and the country. By joining in this partnership with Ignatius Press, we are helping to save the souls of our children.”

Fr. Joseph Fessio, S.J., founder of Ignatius Press, also reflected on the reasons behind launching the book fair, saying, “I see a tremendous attack on children, in social media and movies, and especially in the schools. There’s an agenda that force-feeds them something that distorts the truth.”

He continued, “The attack on children through Scholastic is abominable. And we’re not just criticizing it; we’re doing something about it.”

The idea of creating a book fair to rival Scholastic began many years ago in conversations between Middendorf and Fr. Fessio, while Middendorf was still president of Lighthouse Catholic Media. Fast forward to Middendorf’s move to Augustine Institute and the lockdowns during the COVID pandemic, and the project was put on hold.

Then, with Middendorf named the University president in 2022 and Fr. Fessio as a guest lecturer— with the possibility of distribution through 5 Stones (formerly part of Lighthouse Catholic Media)—and with a generous donation to underwrite the launch of the program, the stage was set.

Only one piece was missing: Once the infrastructure was built, how could it be maintained efficiently?

Enter Ave Maria University’s beloved and dependable (and paid) student interns. Across fields such as accounting and finance, marketing, design, communications, and computer science, the Ave Maria interns are helping to support the Ignatius Book Fairs.

My internship with Ignatius Book Fairs has given me real-world job experience, working for a company that is truly making a difference in the lives of others. Being a communications major, this experience has allowed me to practice skills in writing as well as converse with others about a mission that I am truly proud to support. In helping to provide children with wholesome and faith-based literature, I know I am using my talents for a greater good.

—Chris Hermann ('25)

The hard work of the interns has not escaped the notice of their Ave Maria supervisors. “Ignatius Book Fairs is truly important work, and we could not do it without our interns,” said designer Balbina O’Brien, who manages the interns in graphic design and social media.

“I am consistently amazed with the quality of work I get back from our interns. One of our marketing interns, Hope Mosher, was brought on to help with our rapidly growing design needs. She was trained—from the ground up—in design software and supported our production efforts. However, we quickly learned that her talents extended far beyond assisting with small design projects. In fact, Hope’s role has now grown in both creativity and responsibility. She now curates the book fair’s Instagram posts and is instrumental in designing stickers, coloring sheets, and much more.”

Interns such as Chris and Hope are directly impacting the quality of the Ignatius Book Fairs and learning skills they can apply in professional roles.

30% of the books in the Ignatius Book Fairs are Catholic and include engaging stories about the faith, saints, sacraments, and the Bible. Many of the Catholic children’s books are co-published by Magnificat and Ignatius Press, including the popular religious books by Tomie de Paola, and other Catholic publishers, such as the Augustine Institute and Bethlehem Books.

About 70% of the books are edifying, nonreligious books, including genres such as fiction, fantasy, biographies, fairytales, classic children’s books, sports, history, and arts and crafts.

The book fairs feature masterpieces by authors such as Jane Austen, J. R. R. Tolkien, and C. S. Lewis, including modern classics from Dr. Seuss and Laura Ingalls Wilder. The catalogue also features contemporary Catholic authors, like Paul McCusker and Raymond Arroyo.

Ignatius Book Fairs are now available across the continental United States.

Ignatius Book Fairs currently provides books for children grades K-8 as well as a selection for teens 16+. Add-on packages include books for adults and faithbased toys and materials.

In addition to the in-person book fairs, there are thousands of more books online, and Ignatius

Book Fairs will soon offer virtual book fairs catered specifically to smaller groups.

“Not only are we providing meaningful work for our paid interns; we’re also reaching and forming future Ave Maria students through the quality materials in our book fairs. That’s our hope,” President Middendorf said.

It’s our hope that others will feel inspired to support the Ignatius Book Fairs and grow this mission. “We’re competing with a giant. This is a David versus Goliath battle,” Middendorf said.

And speaking of giants, the books in Ignatius Book Fairs include tales of giants, elves, and dwarves, ordinary kids on backyard adventures, talking animals and flying fish, and not one bicep-tattooed princess among them.

And yes, somewhere within the leaves of masters like J. R. R. Tolkien, thar be dragons!

To learn more about Ignatius Book Fairs and how to host your own, please visit ignatiusbookfairs.com.

—Sarah Chichester Institutional Writer and Researcher sarah.chichester@avemaria.edu

Inspired by Faith, Enlivened by Community

THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF CATHOLIC SCHOLARS AND ARTISTS

When one thinks about what it means to be an intellectual, smiles and laughter are usually not among the first attributes. Therefore, it might seem curious to many that the recent gathering of The American Academy of Catholic Scholars and Artists (AACSA) at Ave Maria University (AMU) was permeated with earto-ear grins and the ringing of laughter.

The curious observer can find consolation (and perhaps humor) in the Oxford Learner’s Dictionary, which defines an intellectual as “a person who … enjoys activities in which they have to think seriously about things.”

Enjoyment wrought from serious thinking; this is the spirit of AACSA, a critical component of the public intellectual face of Ave Maria University, whose mission “seek[s] to engage the modern world in the Church’s universal call to holiness.”

Dr. Andrew Abela, dean of the Busch School of Business at The Catholic University of America, says, “AACSA is a great opportunity to spend time with and get to know other faithful Catholic scholars, sharpening and inspiring each other’s thinking.”

“In our modern world,” says Dr. Gerald Boersma, AMU professor of theology and director of AACSA, “the joy of true scholarship can get interrupted by daily demands. By setting aside time to gather and share ideas, AACSA members are reinvigorated. We return to our work with a fresh eagerness to bring the Catholic intellectual and artistic tradition to life in our diverse fields and society.”

AACSA is an exclusive community of 40 scholars and artists who gather each year for an annual conference. Rather than simply present papers, AACSA conferences are centered around panel discussions that promote active dialogue across disciplines, build upon fresh perspectives, and engage in conversation with academic rigor.

This year’s theme, “Sacramental Space,” was particularly riveting for members who, among other topics, engaged in a lively discussion on sacramental architecture with renowned architect, Notre Dame University professor Duncan Stroik, who called the AACSA conference “incredibly stimulating” where “highly respected Catholic scholars had refreshing discussions.” Later that day, during a private tour of the Ave Maria Parish Church, members had an opportunity to consider some of these sacramental and architectural principles. The tour was led by AMU Founder and Chancellor Thomas S. Monaghan. This year’s meeting was especially unique as it included the unveiling of a wall in the Thomas and Selby Prince Building lobby dedicated to the Academy’s work, which we invite you to visit here on campus.

To learn more about the AACSA and its role at AMU, please visit theaacsa.org or contact Dr. Gerald Boersma at gerald.boersma@avemaria.edu.

—Neil Watson Director of Marketing neil.watson@avemaria.edu

Surprised by Joy SHEDDING LIGHT ON AMU’S GIFT TO THE CHURCH AND SOCIETY

A newly ordained priest—a great theology student— was assigned as a pastor to a rural mountain parish, and a welcoming committee of parishioners greeted him when he arrived.

He thanked them warmly and then assured them: “Brethren, I am here to serve you. I come with metaphysics, Aquinas, hermeneutics, and apologetics.”

“Don’t worry, Father,” replied an old woman, patting his arm. “I have arthritis, diabetes, conjunctivitis, and psoriasis, but our local doctor is amazing.”

Now, all joking aside, while we might not mistake Aristotle’s Metaphysics for a physical ailment or Aquinas for a skin condition, we might not have had the opportunity to unwrap and reflect on the great gift that is Ave Maria University’s doctoral theology program.

Since its founding in 2004 by Fr. Matthew Lamb, the Ave Maria University doctoral program in theology has sought to “teach the teachers.”

“Fr. Lamb wanted to make teachers, to have theologians who know dogmatic theology but are also historically competent and have the ability to communicate that. He wanted to enliven the Catholic mind against those who were trying to close it,” said Fr. Guy Mansini, professor and Max Seckler chair of theology.

“By this, Fr. Lamb meant that the ‘doctors’ in any discipline are the ones who transmit the knowledge of the discipline to the next generation—certainly by their teaching, but also by their research and service to the Church,” provost and professor of theology Dr. Roger Nutt said.

By focusing on advanced, rigorous, faithful theology that encompasses the full breadth of the theological tradition, Ave Maria University forms solid theologians who can teach theology well.

Dr. Michael Dauphinais, chair of the theology department and professor of theology and humanities, highlighted the unity of theology and scholarship within the program. “The Ph.D. program strives for a joyful fidelity, vibrantly rooted in tradition, yet engaged in the world and not hiding from it,” Dr. Dauphinais said. “The program unites faithfulness to Christ with the rigors of scholarship.”

“We teach wisdom and holiness, science and scholarship,” Dr. Dauphinais continued. “Our program avoids fragmentation in overspecialization and instead teaches the ‘sapiential unity’ of theology, that is, the wisdom that orders the whole.”

As well as having a perhaps unique approach to teaching theology (in that it is not overly specialized), the

We strive for a renewal of theology, not just seeking to make it old again.

—Dr. Michael Dauphinais, Professor of Theology and Humanities

doctoral program also has a relatively unique approach to positing the ideal characteristics of its applicants.

According to Fr. Mansini, “Ideally, an applicant to the doctoral program would have the capacity for friendship.”

This might seem surprising, as one does not readily think of a theologian in terms of his or her capacity for friendship. Perhaps one can envision more readily the theologian’s capacity for study, bent over texts, surrounded by haphazard stacks of books, with a furrowed brow as a shaft of sunlight from a nearby window illumines the drifting dust particles in the musty air.

“They won’t learn unless they can become friends with the teachers, and then, as a professor, with their students,” Fr. Mansini explained. “Our Ph.D. students are a community of friends. They talk with each other —not just intellectually, but personally. They have a capacity for friendship.”

Taylor Payne ('26), a doctoral student at Ave Maria, agreed. “One of the best gifts I have experienced is being able to sit and talk with different professors outside of class,” Payne said. “Ultimately, the doctoral program has allowed me to develop genuine friendships with my peers and faculty members.”

“These mentors have shown me how one can incorporate his or her scholarship within an entire life that is oriented toward Christ,” added Payne, speaking of his professors. “I am a much more attentive thinker and a better man for having sat at the feet of these intellectual giants.”

At the heart of the strong community life of the students and faculty within the Ph.D. program lies a

rigorous and faithful theology. If the next generation of teachers is poorly formed, then the following generation of students will not know the truth, and, ultimately, the Church and society will suffer. Conversely, if future teachers are taught an advanced and faithful theology, then their future students will know the truth; the theology program itself will be a source of true renewal within the Church and our culture.

As people in the pews, we might know more about arthritis and psoriasis than metaphysics. But we can place great confidence in the theologians who delve into the mysteries of God with friendship, joyful fidelity, and rigorous scholarship at Ave Maria University. We can be grateful they will be teaching the next generation of theologians, who, according to Fr. Mansini, should be prepared to be “surprised by joy.”

And to all faithful theologians, especially those here at Ave Maria University: Thank you for your service in upholding and promulgating authentic Catholic theology.

To learn more about supporting our doctoral program and the future of theology in the United States, please contact advancement at (239) 280-2586 and advancement@avemaria.edu.

To apply to the master’s or doctoral program, please contact admissions at (239) 280-2556.

The aim of

our graduate

program is to insert the Christian person into the reality of God—to know and love Him truly.

—Fr.

Guy Mansini, Professor of Theology

—Sarah Chichester Institutional Writer and Researcher sarah.chichester@avemaria.edu

The Classroom of Silence INTRODUCING MARY’S MARINES

There are classrooms on campus where acrid, dusty chalk has given way to pungent whiteboard markers.

There are classrooms on campus where the green or black chalkboard trimmed in oak or pine has evolved to a whiteboard complete with aluminum tray.

But there is one classroom on campus where there is neither the rapid staccato of chalk nor the squeaky legato of the whiteboard marker.

In this classroom, no one speaks audibly. Feet shuffle over the carpet. Someone shifts in his seat. A suppressed cough.

It is the “classroom of silence” as Ave Maria University President Mark Middendorf calls it. It is the classroom where each one of us can sit (or collapse, as the case may be, at least interiorly) at the feet of the Great Teacher.

This is the classroom of Eucharistic adoration. It’s the place of heart-to-heart encounters with Jesus, who is present body, blood, soul, and divinity in the Eucharist. Whether exposed in a golden monstrance or hidden behind the gilded door of a tabernacle, He is really, truly, and substantially present in the Eucharist.

And while it is true that we can pray to God anywhere and that He is within us, it is especially powerful to adore Jesus in the Eucharist.

“My favorite thing is, no matter what’s going on in my life, it’s an opportunity for me to slow down and sit at the feet of Our Lord and really outpour my heart to Him and trust that He hears every prayer that comes from me,” said Adrienne Driver ('25), coordinator for the University’s Eucharistic adoration initiative, Mary’s Marines.

She continued, “I became a Mary’s Marine after a talk that President Middendorf gave. He really emphasized the importance of daily adoration, and I was convinced after that.”

Mary’s Marines is an inspiration of President Middendorf’s to invite students, faculty, and staff to spend 15 to 60 minutes daily in Eucharistic adoration. His inspiration came after listening to a recording of a retreat by Venerable Fulton Sheen.

The retreat moved President Middendorf to begin the practice of a daily holy hour in his own life. In assuming his new role as President of Ave Maria in 2022, he invited others to also experience graces that he received before the Lord. Since then, the ranks of Mary’s Marines have grown to 286 members.

“In the classroom of silence, in that adoration chapel is where God can speak to people on their unique and distinctive gifts given them to change the world,” President Middendorf said.

MARY’S MARINES EACH RECEIVE SEVERAL GIFTS UPON SIGNING UP

A leather-bound Bible in a Year, so they can read the Word of God during adoration.

A religious sister who is matched with a Mary’s Marine and prays for them by name.

A copy of the book The Shadow of His Wings, the inspiring story of German seminarian Gereon Goldmann, who became a priest after being commissioned into Hitler’s army. Fr. Goldmann’s mother died when he was young, and a nun spiritually adopted him and prayed for him daily.

(This became the inspiration for connecting each Mary’s Marine with a religious sister to pray for them.)

Invitations to special events.

A Mass offered for each Marine’s intentions.

Dr. Sam Shephard, an associate professor of biology at Ave Maria and a Mary’s Marine, said, “I go for half an hour before work in the early morning. And sometimes that daily prayer can be really profound and beautiful and wonderful. I feel so close to God. And then other times I just sit there and say, ‘Lord, what are you doing?’”

“We are a diverse group,” Dr. Shephard continued. “I think the more of us there are in adoration, the more it permeates the heart of the mission.”

In addition to the graces wrought throughout the times of personal prayer, each Mary’s Marine is assigned a religious sister from around the world, who prays specifically for that Marine. “I thought it was really neat that I could have a sister praying for me every step of the way during my college years,” Driver said.

The student Mary’s Marines are currently being formed in the classroom of silence, a formation they will bring into the world. This allows them to turn their hearts and bring their troubles, doubts, and failures to the Lord, and to remember the greatest lesson: that they are uniquely known and deeply loved by the God they seek, who has been seeking them all along.

All this can be done without one spoken word. In silence.

For all of us, especially when we cannot get to adoration but carry within us our worries and concerns, it’s important to turn—even for a moment—our minds and hearts to the Lord, and simply repeat back to Him the perennial lesson He teaches us: I love you

—Sarah Chichester Institutional Writer and Researcher sarah.chichester@avemaria.edu

AMU Athletics 2023-2024 ATHLETIC PROGRAMS

THRIVE IN NEW GOLISANO FIELD HOUSE

The 25 Ave Maria University athletic programs have produced not only excellent athletes, but also fierce disciples of Christ. This year is no exception. With the new Golisano Field House, an inaugural season for one team, and two experiencing undefeated records, there is a lot to celebrate for AMU athletics. Here are some of the highlights of the 2023-2024 academic year.

FALL

The fall season saw nearly 300 student-athletes competing in six different sports, the most successful being the men’s and women’s cross country teams. Under the direction of second-year head coach Alan Webb, both teams finished second in the Sun Conference Championships. Most notable were the performances of Lily Burke ('25), Felicity Foxhoven ('26), Sofia Torres ('27), and Samuel Paga ('26), who all qualified for the NAIA National Championships in Vancouver, Washington.

The football team’s season was highlighted by a Homecoming win against Webber International University and trips to Michigan and Texas. Running back Bryan Stiemke ('24) received third-team All-American honors as he led the NAIA in rushing yards per game and all-purpose yards per game.

The women’s soccer team had a remarkable season defensively, allowing just one goal per game. The defensive efforts allowed the team to achieve four Sun Conference wins and three Sun Conference ties, while the men’s soccer team—competing under the direction of first-year head coach Cesar Markovic—competed well and laid the groundwork for future success.

WINTER

The men’s and women’s basketball teams both achieved 20-win seasons, accomplished simultaneously by the programs only twice in the 16-year history of basketball at Ave Maria. Both teams won home playoff games, and the women advanced all the way to the Sun Conference Championship Game. The basketball season was made even more special by the opening of the new Golisano Field House in late December. The 44,000-square-foot field house has two full regulation college courts, five locker rooms, a 2,800-square-foot weight room, an athletic training room, and a coaches’ office suite. The new facility also provides a particularly fan-friendly environment. The official bleacher capacity for a game is just shy of 1,000, and Gyrene Nation consistently filled the seats and created the best home atmosphere in the conference. The women took full advantage of the new facility, going 10-0 at Golisano.

Under first-year head coach Giordan Harris, the men’s and women’s swimming teams made great strides, finishing fifth out of nine teams in both genders of the Sun Conference Championships (both teams had finished in last place the previous year). Remarkably, five Gyrene swimmers qualified for the NAIA Nationals, including Pete Anderson ('25), Eduardo Martiniano ('25), Eli Pelzer ('27), Sam Pilkington ('25), and Gabby Darakchieva ('26).

The competitive dance team—under second-year head coach Clara Garcia—was undefeated at the time of the writing. The Gyrenes finished in first place in all five of their meets, including their inaugural home meet at the Golisano Field House. The team also performed at multiple basketball games and every home football game. The Gyrenes entered the NAIA Southeast Regionals with expectations of qualifying for the NAIA National Tournament.

SPRING

The baseball team entered the season ranked No. 15 in the NAIA national poll, its highest preseason ranking ever. Under the direction of first-year head coach Nick McCormick, the team began the season with successful trips to Texas and Arizona.

The softball team jumped to a great start, posting a 18-6 record at the time of the writing. The team—under second-year head coach JuliaClare Plezbert—also demonstrated great resiliency as five of the 18 wins were one-run victories.

The ultimate frisbee team picked up where they left off last year, finishing the preseason 7-0 and beginning the regular season 12-0, including an exciting trip to Indiana that culminated in a victorious exhibition match against Notre Dame’s club team. Coach Michael Middendorf ('20) has the team primed for its final three tournaments of the season, which will hopefully result in the Gyrenes qualifying for the Division III National Tournament in May.

The men’s and women’s golf teams—under first-year head coach Patrick Sams—showed great improvement, setting several program records. The men finished in second place in two tournaments, including a tournament AMU hosted at the National Golf and Country Club in Ave Maria, Florida.

The women’s tennis team—based on its success the previous year—qualified for the NAIA National Indoor Championships, where they had three matches in Overland Park, Kansas, against nationally ranked teams. Both the men and women compete in the Sun Conference—the top tennis conference in the NAIA— where five of the men’s teams and four of the women’s teams are nationally ranked.

The men’s rugby team launched its inaugural varsity season under head coach Phillip Gay ('19). They brought a great gameday atmosphere to the new rugby field on the north end of campus. Track and field competed in several meets, all in preparation for the April 27 Sun Conference Championships in Miami Gardens, Florida.

Full updates on all AMU athletics can be found at avemariagyrenes.com.

—Joseph Patterson Vice President of Enrollment and Director of Athletics joseph.patterson@avemaria.edu

David vs. Goliath HOW ULTIMATE FRISBEE WENT FROM A SMALL CLUB TO AN UNDEFEATED VARSITY SPORT

Since 2013, Ave Maria University Men’s Ultimate Frisbee (Ultimate) has been a place for young men to grow in virtue while exercising their athletic skills. Since its promotion from club to varsity in March 2022, players now have the opportunity to glorify God on a larger scale—an opportunity they have not wasted. From the University of Miami, to Auburn, to their most recent victory over Notre Dame, AMU Ultimate has proven they can compete at the highest levels on a national scale.

We interviewed head coach Michael Middendorf ('20), to discover how they have found such strong success in just two years.

Q. Well, we have to start with the most pressing question: How was the game against Notre Dame?

It was a big moment for our team. Notre Dame gave us an incredible opportunity to play their club, and we’re very grateful to them. They have an extremely talented team and a great group of guys—on and off the field.

This game was something we’ve been preparing for. Our guys put in an incredible amount of work every day for opportunities like this, and praise be to God, it paid off. We won 15-10. The first half was point-forpoint, but we were leading 8-7 at halftime. It was the first time we played on an indoor field, which made offense much easier, but defense harder. Neither team was making any mistakes on offense, and it was really our conditioning that carried us through. We weren’t playing tired, which allowed for a higher level of effort and mental focus.

Q. Sounds like a great game! What do your practices look like to prepare for games against big teams like this?

It comes down to the intensity of our training and reliance on divine assistance. Conditioning is the foundation of everything we do at practice, which allows our skill to carry through. All the D1 teams we’ve faced have been bigger than us, more athletic, and more experienced. You can control conditioning, but you can’t control your natural skill set (speed, height, strength); my guys may not be the most athletic team, but they will be the most conditioned. When you have that focus, the question isn’t which team has more skill; it’s who’s going to push through the pain and draw from the courage within themselves to give it their all. When we raise the intensity of our practices, we see that effort on the field.

This of course is all driven by our reliance on God. The purpose of our team is not to win games; it’s to build disciples of Christ. When we’re prepping for games, we completely abandon ourselves to God’s will. As long as we put in the hard work every practice and do everything we can to physically, mentally, and spiritually prepare, all the pressure is gone—the game is in God’s Hands. This peace allows us to carry our crosses during practice. I’ll tell the guys, “What we do is hard; we embrace the difficult things.” In competition, you draw strength from your weakest moments in practice, and our men know how to do that through their deep reliance on God.

God has blessed us with our victories, but we’re going to win games and we’re going to lose games. Your legacy on the Ultimate team will not be the season’s final record, but rather how you let the Ultimate program form you into the man God is calling you to be.

—Coach Middendorf to AMU Ultimate Frisbee Team

Q. What has the shift from club to varsity been like for your team?

Having the full backing of the athletic department has been incredible for us. With the generous support of the University and our donors who give directly to the team, the guys are able to focus on themselves— academically and athletically—without having to worry about the costs that come from a club sport (travel, membership fees, etc.). This financial assistance allows the team to live in the moment and focus on what’s really important.

Q. Can you share a bit more about the team culture? Has it changed at all from when you played as a student on the club team?

Our culture finds its roots in the club teams that came before this varsity team. The team has a rich history of building up freshmen and having a welcoming environment. Seniors are helping the newer guys clean up cones, giving them opportunities in practice, and teaching them lessons in skill and character: how to deal with teams that aren’t fair, focusing on the things you can control, and handling the game with grace and virtue. Having that leadership on the team is crucial, while leading from the front spiritually as well. It doesn’t matter who you are on the team; every guy leads a decade of the Rosary at some point—everyone is participating in prayer.

Q. You mentioned the Rosary already. What else do the guys do together from a community standpoint?

Outside the team Rosary we pray before each game, the Ultimate program has a team retreat during the spring semester, and two service projects where everyone participates.

Off the field, there’s a closeness among the guys, grounded in natural brotherhood. They’re in the same households, classes, clubs. There’s a community that exists organically off the field and is strengthened through ultimate frisbee. And I think a large part of this

is due to the mission of our team. We have three pillars: mission orientation, academic excellence, and athletic achievement. As a program, we demand excellence in all three of these mindsets, so the guys can live the lives God is calling them to.

Q. Sounds like an incredible group. As their coach, how have they impacted you and your leadership?

There are a lot of different ways to approach coaching. In my experience growing up, it was always the coaches who practiced what they preached that I looked up to most. I ask a lot of my guys, and because of this, I try to live up to those same standards. Whether that’s making sure I’m never late, or always striving to become more knowledgeable of the sport, I look to them for the kind of coach they need me to be.

Along with this, there’s a selflessness on the team that’s deeply inspiring to me. The competitive desire to worry about yourself and seek all the glory isn’t present anywhere on our team. These guys are a unit; they’re always taking care of each other and looking to see God through their fellow teammates.

Q. Right now you’re undefeated, both in your fall preseason and spring regular season. What can we expect from your team going forward?

There’s a chance we’ll be able to go to Nationals this year, but if we want to win, we have to prepare in every aspect.

We have AMDG (“Ad majórem Dei glóriam”, “For the greater glory of God”) on all of our gear—from our jerseys to our warmups. We pray three times before every game, “Not our will, but Thy will be done.” And at the end of every practice, we abandon ourselves to God completely in prayer.

At the beginning of the semester, I asked my guys to commit to praying the Rosary every day for God’s will to be done in their lives, on and off the field. We may win 10 more games; we might lose the next 10. Above all, this program is about building steadfast Catholic men who know how to go into the world and be leaders wherever God is calling them, and that’s what it will continue to be.

—Shelby Mayer ('20) Marketing Manager shelby.mayer@avemaria.edu

AMU ALUMNI CLASS NOTES

Fr. Bryan Jerabek ('04)

Fr. Bryan Jerabek grew up in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and studied philosophy at Ave Maria University. After graduating from the pre-theologate program at AMU, he went to seminary at Mount St. Mary’s in Emmitsburg, Maryland, and was ordained on June 7, 2008. He has been the pastor and rector of the Cathedral of St. Paul in Birmingham, Alabama, since July 2016. Fr. Bryan also serves as the chancellor of the Diocese of Birmingham in Alabama (since February 2016), judicial vicar of the diocese (since July 2021), chaplain for Birmingham-Area University Students, and chaplain of St. Stephen’s Chapel in Birmingham (since July 2021).

Father was named a Missionary of Mercy of His Holiness, Pope Francis, in 2020. In this position, he holds a special mandate from the Holy Father to hear confessions anywhere in the world and remit censures associated with certain ecclesiastical crimes, a power otherwise reserved for the Holy See. Father’s favorite memory from AMU is his time on the Michigan campus and the close-knit community he had there.

“I loved being part of the delegation that started AMU at the temporary campus in Naples, where I went for my final year and completed my degree. The faithful, Catholic liberal arts education was a great preparation for my life; it’s a gift that keeps on giving!”

Erin (Sedlacek) Van de Voorde ('08)

Erin (Sedlacek) Van de Voorde grew up on a dairy farm in northwestern Wisconsin and studied politics and theology at Ave Maria University. After graduation, she accepted an internship in foreign policy at The Heritage Foundation in Washington, D.C., eventually transitioning to full time as a research assistant on defense and military studies. After The Heritage Foundation, Erin worked with The Howard Baker Forum, The John Paul II Project in Krakow, Poland, and her Alma Mater, AMU! She is currently working for West of Perfection: a leadership development company she founded in 2021.

Erin and her husband, Peter, live in Nashville with their four boys. Peter attended AMU for two years and met Erin through his sister Alison ('09), a fellow AMU alumna. Peter’s brother Jude also graduated from AMU in 2019. Erin is very active with her local parish as a Level I Catechist in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program for ages three to six. Some of her favorite memories from AMU are her classes, the time spent with her Rosa Mystica Household sisters, playing on the soccer team, and organizing campus events—to name a few!

“I was deeply impacted by Dr. Seana Sugrue. Her example of integrating exceptional professionalism, intelligence, and excellence—both in her professional career and as a mother— profoundly impacted me. She’s a unique beacon of living those vocations in an integrated way, which I have drawn upon over the years and aspire to still today. Thank you, Dr. Sugrue!”

Daniel Bielinski ('09)

Daniel Bielinski grew up in Wisconsin and studied literature at Ave Maria University. After graduation, he got his M.F.A. in acting from Columbia University. He is currently located in Bismarck, North Dakota, where he serves as the chair of dramatic arts for the University of Mary. He is the founder of Canticle Productions—a film production company—where he writes, directs, and produces feature films.

Daniel is married to AMU alumna Lillian (Bouchey) Bielinski ('09), and they have six children, which they homeschool in a Catholic homeschool co-op. His sister, Maureen Bielinski, also attended Ave Maria and graduated with the class of 2012. Daniel’s favorite memory from his time at AMU is having dinner with Fr. Fessio.

“The birth and growth of Ave Maria is really beautiful and miraculous to see. As a student who experienced the transition from the temporary campus in Naples to the new campus in Ave Maria, I appreciated how ‘big’ the dream was, and how many people worked tirelessly to make that dream a reality.”

Bernadette Hartney ('19)

Bernadette Hartney grew up in Augusta, Georgia, and studied biochemistry and health science at Ave Maria University. After graduation, she became a full-time missionary for Damascus Catholic Mission, where she serves over 10,000 people every year through high school retreats, camps, and conferences. She is currently located in Centerburg, Ohio, where she oversees the formation, scheduling, training, and mentorship of Damascus missionaries.

Bernadette is the fifth of her family to graduate from AMU, following in the footsteps of her older sisters: Marie ('10), Catherine ('11), Annie ('14), and Josie ('17). Along with her work for Damascus, she is active in the youth group of her local parish. Bernadette’s favorite memory from her time at AMU is winning Dorm Wars her freshman year.

“AMU taught me to put Jesus first in everything: in work, academics, athletics, and my ambitious hopes and dreams. Putting Jesus first ultimately allowed me to let go of my plans, ask Him where He wanted me, and say yes to being a missionary. My word to others? Put Jesus first in everything you do, invite Him to write your story, hold your plans loosely, and say yes to Him even if it looks different than you originally thought it would!”

Jon LaRochelle ('19)

Jon LaRochelle grew up in Bedford, New Hampshire, and studied biochemistry at Ave Maria University. After graduation, he entered the graduate program in biomedical sciences, joining the pharmacology concentration, at the University of Florida (UF). His research involved testing therapeutics in animal models of ischemic stroke. He was awarded a predoctoral fellowship from the American Heart Association—publishing eight scientific papers during his graduate studies—and received his Ph.D. in medical sciences in December 2023. He is currently working as a postdoctoral associate at UF in the Department of Neuroscience, continuing his research in stroke and other neurological diseases.

Jon married his college sweetheart, Clare (Littleton) LaRochelle (‘19), in August 2019. They live in Gainesville, Florida, with their two children. She is one of nine AMU graduates in her family, with the tenth entering as a freshman in fall 2024! Jon’s favorite memory from AMU is the time he spent with his Filii in Filio Household brothers and his first date with his wife.

“I look back and am extremely grateful for the abundant opportunities I was given to succeed while at AMU. It’s been a joy to see the incredible heights other classmates have been able to achieve, both in their careers and personal lives. I think it’s a great testament to the wellroundedness AMU fosters in its graduates.”

AMU’s Three Newest Households

MEET THE HOLY MEN AND WOMEN

EXPANDING HOUSEHOLD LIFE AT AVE MARIA

Household life has been a fundamental part of AMU’s campus culture since the first women’s household in 2005. Now almost 20 years later, Ave Maria has 20 households with over 200 students involved.

Three of these households were created during this academic year: Knights of Sebaste Men’s Household, Totus Tuus Women’s Household, and Esse Bonus Vir Men’s Household. We spent some time with each household to hear a bit more about their communities.

Meet the Men of Knights of Sebaste

Charisms: Chivalry, Orthodoxy, The Davidic Ethic, and Brotherhood

Patrons: The Holy Martyrs of Sebaste, Adam the Patriarch, Eve the Matriarch, the Archangels, St. Jerome, and St. James the Moor-slayer

When Sean transferred from Franciscan University to AMU in 2021, he brought an idea with him: a male household centered around devotion to a female saint. Rooted in traditional values of the Church, Sean pitched the idea to his friend Thomas at the Activities Fair that semester. Two years later they held the first initiation for their new household: Knights of Sebaste.

The household is centered heavily on the Code of Chivalry, and members strive to bring these virtues to life through their charisms. At their weekly meetings, they discuss significant male figures in history, analyzing their character and identifying whether they possess moral virtue and/or masculine virtue.

Knights of Sebaste has four members and two men in the process of joining. A key part of the household’s initiation includes every member choosing a female saint to consecrate their lives to. On intent day—where they officially join the household—these men write their own consecration prayer to the saint and pray it with their household brothers.

I had a devotion to St. Philomena and was reflecting on the impact she has had on me. All my other devotions were male saints except her, and it made me wish every guy had the influence of a feminine saint in their life. So I started a household around it. —Sean ('24)

Meet the Women of Totus Tuus

Charisms: Magnanimity, Marian Slavery, and Joy in Suffering

Patrons: Venerable Teresita Quevedo, Pope St. John Paul II, and the Claretian Martyrs of Barbastro

Kennedy and Angelica grew up almost three thousand miles apart but were united by their formation with the Institute of the Incarnate Word (IVE). IVE—in association with their sister order, Servants of the Lord and the Virgin of Matará—had a lasting impact on Angelica and Kennedy that instilled a desire for true, pure love for Mary. Upon meeting at AMU and discovering a lack of any women’s household focused solely on union with Mary, they set out to create Totus Tuus.

“My brother is a seminarian with IVE and he took a fourth vow of Marian slavery. It struck a chord with me; I didn’t find that charism in other households on campus.“ —Kennedy ('26)

Totus Tuus (“Totally Yours”) plans for a weekly Mass, brunch, holy hour, and living Rosary where each member prays a decade throughout the day. The household currently has six members: five sophomores and one freshman.

“We looked at other households around AMU and were particularly inspired by Lions of Judah [men’s household]. When you meet a Lions of Judah, you know they’re a Lions of Judah. The men in that household have a purity of intention and a deep desire to grow in holiness. Similarly, we want our women to be an image of Mary on campus and to everyone they meet outside of AMU.” —Angelica ('26)

Meet the Men of Esse Bonus Vir

Charisms: Humility, Hospitality, and Joy

Patrons: St. Matthias, St. Josemaría Escrivá, St. Ignatius of Loyola, and St. Padre Pio

Esse Bonus Vir (“To Be a Good Man”) was founded when President Mark Middendorf encouraged Adrian to start a group on campus, after hearing his dynamic testimony during the St. Joseph Men’s Group and Theology on Tap. With a group of his close friends, they formed a household with a simple purpose: elevate the existing joy on campus.

“We wanted to do something that would bring people together and bring joy to those around us. Doing something nice for someone; hosting events that brighten people’s day; bringing students closer to God. We just wanted to spread the joy of AMU.” —Adrian ('25)

The household—made up of one freshman and four juniors—attend adoration together once a week, have a weekly Mass and meeting, and an optional Rosary three times a week. Their mission statement emphasizes their dependency on God, stating:

“To bring joy to campus and to grow in humility and holiness in every aspect of life. We strive for sainthood and endeavor to keep each other accountable. Giving all glory to God in everything we do, especially through our God-given talents.“

20 households in 25 years, and more to come. Please continue to pray for our students as they strive to live the will of God through these holy households!

To learn more about households and why they are a vital part of AMU’s student culture, visit avemaria.edu/campus-life/households.

—Shelby Mayer ('20) Marketing Manager shelby.mayer@avemaria.edu

In 2001, I helped in the founding of Ave Maria Mutual Funds. Since then, I have personally invested tens of millions of dollars in these Catholic Mutual Funds. After realizing substantial gains, I continue to own several million dollars worth of shares, which I plan to hold indefinitely.

The excellent financial performance of the Pro-Life, Pro-Family Ave Maria Mutual Funds has helped me pursue many charitable endeavors related to the Catholic Church.

TOM MONAGHAN Chairman Ave Maria Foundation

This testimonial may not be representative of the experience of other customers.

“As a member of the Ave Maria Mutual Funds Catholic Advisory Board, I receive compensation from the Funds of approximately $10,000 per year, which I do not believe affects my objectivity. Such compensation for my time and advice is not payment for this endorsement. I truly believe in the mission of the Ave Maria Mutual Funds.” – Tom Monaghan Past performance does not guarantee future results.

Schwartz Investment Counsel, Inc., a registered investment adviser established in 1980, serves as investment adviser for Ave Maria Mutual Funds and invests only in securities that meet the Funds’ investment and religious requirements. The returns may be lower or higher than if decisions were based solely on investment considerations. The method of security selection may or may not be successful and the Funds may underperform or outperform the stock market as a whole. All mutual funds are subject to market risk, including possible loss of principal. Request a prospectus, which includes investment objectives, risks, fees, charges and expenses and other information that you should read and consider carefully before investing. The prospectus can be obtained by calling 1-866-283-6274 or it can be viewed at www.avemariafunds.com. Distributed by Ultimus Fund Distributors, LLC.

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A Fountainhead of Renewal for the Church.

Faith

“Faith isn’t just a concept at Ave Maria. I experience Christ’s love lived out every day, from my classmates inviting me to daily Mass to the culture of prayer amongst the students.”

Leila ('24)

Community

“The AMU community is special. Here, my friends are more than people I hang out with in my free time; they are fellow warriors for Christ.”

—Lucas ('24)

Academics

“I’m supported and encouraged by professors who have become mentors (and even friends). They don’t only care about my grades, but also my vocation and salvation.”

—Sarah ('26)

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